Northampton hospital to showcase pioneering prostate cancer treatments at free men's health event

Pioneering prostate cancer treatments now available at Northampton General Hospital will be showcased at a free men's health event taking place tomorrow (Friday).

The hospital will host a Men's Health and Wellbeing Event on November 6, giving residents the opportunity to learn about advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment, meet medical specialists and access health advice.

Running from noon until 4pm in the Cripps Large Hall, the event has been organised by Northamptonshire Health Charity, whose supporters have helped fund several new technologies at the hospital.

Among the developments being highlighted is High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) focal therapy, a less invasive treatment option for some prostate cancer patients.

Northampton General Hospital is the first NHS centre in the East Midlands, and one of only a small number nationally, to offer the treatment.

Visitors can also find out about advanced fusion biopsy technology, designed to improve the accuracy of prostate cancer diagnosis, and the NanoKnife system, which offers another treatment option for suitable patients.

The charity says these developments mean more patients can access specialist care closer to home without having to travel elsewhere in the country.

Mr Chandran Tanabalan, consultant urological surgeon and associate medical director for clinical efficiency and productivity at University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, said: "One in eight men will develop prostate cancer, which is why early diagnosis and access to the very best treatment options are so important."

He added: "The support of Northamptonshire Health Charity and its donors has enabled us to introduce pioneering technologies that are transforming how we diagnose and treat prostate cancer.

"These innovations place Northampton General Hospital among a small number of NHS centres offering advanced focal therapies, representing a major step forward not only for our hospital, but for patients across Northamptonshire and the wider Midlands."

The event will also feature representatives from Maggie's, Macmillan Cancer Support, the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust, Talking Health Northamptonshire and local prostate cancer support groups.

Free health checks, including blood pressure monitoring, will be available, alongside advice on stopping smoking, prevention, rehabilitation before treatment and early diagnosis.

Christina Kelly, from Northamptonshire Health Charity, said: "This is a fantastic example of the difference our supporters make. Donations have helped bring cutting-edge prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment technology to Northamptonshire, ensuring local patients can benefit from some of the most advanced care available on the NHS."

The event is open to patients, families and the wider public, with no booking required.

Further information about the charity is available at www.nhcharity.co.uk.